Trap fires Ireland warning

13 February 2009 08:54

Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni has warned rebel Stephen Ireland he will not walk into his World Cup squad if he is not involved in their qualifying campaign.

Manchester City star Ireland is still in international exile following his much-publicised walk-out under former boss Steve Staunton.

Ireland has not played for his country since the European Championship qualifying draw in Slovakia in September 2007.

There have been growing calls for Ireland to return to the fold following his impressive run of form for City, but Trapattoni insists the 22-year-old would not be allowed to play at next year's World Cup finals in South Africa if the current squad qualify without him.

"Maybe we will take Ireland into consideration but, if we qualify with this squad, he cannot say, 'I am available'," said Trapattoni.

"That's not for him, it's about the fans. He has to show Irishness and a willingness to play for Ireland."

ChanceTrapattoni also admitted the door is open for any player who is currently out of the squad.

"Of course, we wait for Steven Reid and Stephen Ireland and other players. Never say never," added Trapattoni.

"There is still a long way to go in the campaign but even while we wait we have a good situation to go away in the qualifiers."